Mental Health Nursing Unit V

1. Presented by:
Mr. P. Vethadhas M.Sc (N),
Assistant Professor,
Dept.of Mental Health Nursing.

3. Indications
Acute mania, prophylactic treatment of bipolar I disorder,
rapid cycling bipolar disorder
Schizoaffective disorder
Seizures
Other disorders like bulimia nervosa, obsessive compulsive
disorder, agitation and PTSD.

4. Dosage
The usual dose is 15 mg/kg/ day with a maximum of 60
mg/kg/ day orally.

5. Mechanism of Action
The drug acts on gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) an
inhibitory amino acid neurotransmitter. GABA receptor
activation serves to reduce neuronal excitability,

6. Side Effects
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Sedation
Ataxia
Dysarthria

7. Side Effects
Tremor
Weight gain
Loss of hair
Thrombocytopenia
Platelet dysfunction

8. Nurse's Responsibilities
• Explain to the patient to take the drug immediately after food
to reduce GI irritation.
• Advise to come for regular follow-up and periodic
examination of blood count, hepatic function and thyroid
function. Therapeutic serum level of valproic acid is 50-100
micrograms/ml.